Busting 4 Common Hair Care Myths

Ever tried a tip that didn't work well for your hair? Here, we break down 4 most common hair care myths that you should stop doing. Read on to find out!


All hair types have different needs. Depending on your hair type and any concern that you might have, not all tricks you read on the internet is going to help. To build a healthy hair care, you need to understand what your hair needs and the best methods to provide them.

When following these tips, you might be damaging your hair instead of nourishing it. Shiny Leaf lists down 4 common myths in hair care and the truth behind them.



Myth #1: Cutting your hair promotes faster hair growth.
First of all, the hair that grows on your head is already dead. Cutting hair does not cause reaction aside from controlling hair damage. It is the hair follicles that grow the strands. Follicles shed these strands numerous times in one lifetime. When it gets damaged, the growth of strands may slow down or stop completely.

If you’re looking for ways to promote faster hair growth, nourish your scalp instead. Make sure to eat food good for the hair too. It stimulates the follicles to grow stronger and longer hair.


Myth #2: Dandruff equals dry scalp.
While there are cases of dandruff caused by dry scalp, it’s not common. Most of those who have dry scalp and dandruff at the same time suffer from symptoms of scalp conditions such as dermatitis. The most common cause of dandruff is the fast reproduction of skin cells in the scalp. Skin cells die fast and replaced easily by new skin cells. These cells are shed and build upon the scalp, forming layers of flakes called dandruff. What can trigger this condition is a fungus called Malassezia globosa. It feeds on the oil produced by the scalp.

To prevent dandruff from occurring, try not to use conditioners on the scalp and remember to cleanse daily with a gentle shampoo. It will control the oil production.

Myth #3: Soapy shampoos clean your hair better.
Soapy shampoos or formulas that produce lots of suds contain surfactant and sulfate. These are drying ingredients that can make hair look smoother and shinier, but feel dry at the same time. Small amounts of these ingredients help get rid of the excess oil and impurities on the scalp. However, the more that your shampoo produces foam, the more that it can dry hair. The shampoo doesn’t need to be sudsy to clean. Look for mild formulas that are gentle on hair.

Myth #4: When hair does not respond well to hair products, change them.
Exposing your hair to various types of formula in a month or less can cause damage instead of helping it. Remember that what makes hair healthy are vitamins and minerals provided by the body. The products you apply to hair are secondary sources of nutrients. Hair takes time to get used to the formulas that you use on it.

Try one product for one month before trying to replace them. This is enough time to see any damage or benefits the formula has for your hair. However, if you experience irritation, shedding, or massive hair fall, stop using the product at once.


Don’t let hearsay damage your hair! Remember that every hair is different. Understanding your hair’s needs is the best step to get the hair that you deserve.